1989 Playoffs Game 5 vs Cavaliers (The Shot)
Michael Jordan's iconic 'The Shot' over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 playoffs.
In the 1989 NBA playoffs, Michael Jordan hit 'The Shot' over Craig Ehlo at the buzzer to beat the Cavaliers in the first round.
- Player
- Michael Jordan
- Position
- Shooting Guard
- Opponent
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Series Context
- Eastern Conference First Round, Game 5 (Series tied 2-2)
- Significance
- Eliminated Cleveland to advance to the next round
Lore & Background
The shot was taken from the left side of the free-throw line, not just inside the free-throw line.
In Their Own Story
The air in Richfield Coliseum grew heavy, thick with the humidity of desperation and the deafening roar of a home crowd convinced victory was theirs. The ball found Michael Jordan's hands near the top of the key. He drove right, stepped back into his rhythm, and rose up over Craig Ehlo, whose hand fluttered harmlessly by his side, unable to contest the release. For a split second, time seemed to suspend in the arena. The orange leather left Jordan's fingertips, tracing a perfect, high arc against the harsh arena lights before dropping through the net with a soft swish just as the red light illuminated the backboard. Instantly, the floor erupted into chaotic celebration while the home crowd collapsed into a stunned, suffocating silence.
Reader's Guide
The 1989 playoffs saw the Chicago Bulls advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 1975 and the first time in Michael Jordan's career. Their season was ended by the Detroit Pistons for the second straight year.
Did You Know?
- The Pistons had one of the most dominant playoff runs in NBA history, finishing 15–2 with their only losses to the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals.
- The Lakers became the first team in NBA history to open an NBA post-season with 11 straight victories and to sweep three series in an NBA post-season.
- The Boston Celtics' first-round playoff sweep by the Pistons was the first time they failed to get past the round of 16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who made 'The Shot' in the 1989 playoffs?
Chicago Bulls shooting guard Michael Jordan was the player who sank the iconic game-winning jumper at the end of regulation time. His performance secured a crucial road win against a tough Cleveland defense.
Why is this specific playoff moment considered so important?
This victory served as a pivotal turning point that ended the Bulls' pattern of early-round exits and launched them toward their future championship dynasty. It proved Jordan's ability to deliver under extreme pressure on the biggest stage.
What was the series situation before 'The Shot' occurred?
The Eastern Conference First Round series between Chicago and Cleveland was tied at two games apiece, making Game 5 a do-or-die contest. A loss would have likely sent the Bulls home, while a win kept their season alive.
How did the game end for both teams?
The Cleveland Cavaliers were eliminated from the playoffs after Jordan's final shot silenced their arena and sealed a one-point loss. The Chicago Bulls advanced to face the Detroit Pistons in the next round of the postseason.
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